Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash Whiskey

Technically, Michter’s Cele­bration Sour Mash Whiskey is neither bourbon nor rye whiskey. Instead, this unique offering is a combination of both of these brown spirits—the inspired creation of Michter’s master distiller, Willie Pratt, who selected the best of the historic distillery’s bourbon and rye barrels to concoct the delicious hybrid. Pratt settled upon a combination of 30-​year-old, 20-year-old, and younger whiskies for this 112.3-proof vatting, which is, in the words of the distillery’s president, Joseph Magliocco, “a very special whiskey worthy of breaking out at a very special time”—hence the festive moniker. Certainly this sour-mash whiskey fulfills the promise of its name, exuding scents of sweet, smoky fruit, candied cherries, and honeyed vanilla. Only 273 gold-etched bottles exist, each housed in a presentation case that contains a wax-sealed, hand-signed letter from Pratt. The fortunate recipients of these decanters certainly will have cause to celebrate.

Released in December 2013, this bourbon is hand selected by Master. Distiller Willie Pratt, directly from the distillery’s best barrels, which are aged at least 20 years, some more than 30. Consisting of straight bourbon and rye, this beauty holds notes of warm toasted sugar, spice, sweet fruit and vanilla. Only 273 bottles produced, this elegant
spirit is certainly one to savor.

Tasting Notes